Radiation is energy in motion in the form of waves. When we hear the word radiation, we usually think of nuclear radiation, but there is so much more to radiation than just that. Radiation comes in many forms such as sound, light, television signals and ultraviolet radiation.
Natural radiation occurs due to natural deposits of minerals like uranium and potassium in the process of natural decay. This releases small amounts of ionizing radiation. Ionizing radiation is capable of messing up the structure of an atom and damaging cells.
Cosmic radiation is continuously hitting the Earth's outer atmosphere. It is produced by the sun and other stars. When this radiation penetrates the outer layer, humans such as us are affected and exposed to radiation.
Cosmic radiation can affect our health. It depends on the dosage of radiation, the type of radiation, sensitivity of our organs and tissues, the duration of the exposure and characteristics such as age, gender and health issues. If we are exposed to high dosage of radiation for a long period of time, we are more likely to face adverse health effects. If the dosage is low and we are only exposed to any sort of radiation for a shorter period of time, it is unlikely that we will face adverse effects.
Radiation is all around us and there is no way to completely eliminate it. This radiation is natural and will not affect us adversely if absorbed in the right proportion for a short period of time.
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